A special lien is one which the holder thereof can enforce only as a security for the performance of a particular act or obligation, and of such obligations as may be incidental thereto. Where the holder of a special lien is compelled to satisfy a prior lien for his own protection, he may enforce payment of the amount so paid by him, as a part of the claim for which his own lien exists.
R.L. 1910, § 3825.